DW Akademie is inviting qualified researchers and research teams to submit proposals for a regional research consultancy contributing to the third edition of the State of Media Development Report. The consultancy offers an opportunity for experts in media development, journalism, and international development to conduct research across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), or Eastern Europe.
The assignment is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and focuses on how media development organizations are adapting to artificial intelligence (AI), geopolitics, and advocacy within rapidly changing information ecosystems.
DW Akademie is Deutsche Welle’s international center for media development, journalism training, and knowledge transfer. Through projects in more than 60 countries, the organization promotes freedom of expression, access to reliable information, and independent journalism.
The third edition of the State of Media Development Report aims to assess the current performance of the global media development sector by identifying emerging challenges, documenting successful practices, and generating evidence-based recommendations for donors, practitioners, and policymakers.
Researchers will contribute regional perspectives that will feed into a comprehensive global report.
Regions Available
Applicants should submit a proposal for only one of the following regions:
- Africa
- Asia
- Latin America
- Middle East & North Africa (MENA)
- Eastern Europe
The consultancy requires regional expertise and language proficiency appropriate to the selected region.
Consultancy Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | DW Akademie |
| Assignment | Regional Research Consultant |
| Project | State of Media Development Report III |
| Duration | Up to 14 working days |
| Working mode | Remote (online interviews and desk research) |
| Deadline | 30 September 2026 |
Researchers will conduct interviews, analyze survey findings, develop case studies, and contribute regional insights for the global publication.
Key Responsibilities
The consultancy is divided into three main workstreams.
1. Qualitative Research & Survey Support (8.5 days)
Selected researchers will:
- Participate in an onboarding meeting.
- Conduct 14 one-hour online or telephone interviews with representatives of media development organizations.
- Help identify suitable interview participants.
- Transcribe recorded interviews.
- Translate interview transcripts into English where necessary.
- Support regional survey outreach and participation.
2. Desk Research & Analysis (5 days)
Researchers will also:
- Conduct desk research on regional media development trends.
- Analyze interview findings and quantitative survey data.
- Produce regional analysis covering AI, advocacy, and geopolitics.
- Develop two one-page case studies highlighting best practices and challenges.
3. Dissemination (0.5 day)
Researchers may be invited to participate in up to three online dissemination events to present findings and discuss the report.
Expected Deliverables
Successful consultants will submit:
- An updated interview schedule
- English interview transcripts
- Regional analytical reports (three pages for each thematic area)
- Two one-page case studies
- Survey outreach updates and reminder communications
- Regular progress updates to the research team
All intellectual property generated through the assignment will belong exclusively to DW Akademie.
Eligibility Requirements
DW Akademie is seeking researchers with strong experience in international development and media research.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Experience designing and conducting qualitative and quantitative research.
- Excellent data collection and analytical skills.
- Knowledge of media development and journalism ecosystems.
- Regional expertise in the selected geographical area.
- Fluency in English and relevant regional languages.
Regional language requirements include:
- Africa: English and French
- Asia: English
- Latin America: English and Spanish
- MENA: English and Arabic
- Eastern Europe: English
Experience working with media development organizations or international cooperation projects will be an advantage.
Application Requirements
Applications must be submitted as one PDF document containing:
- A cover letter explaining suitability for the selected region.
- CV(s) of researcher(s), including two professional references.
- A proposal (maximum two pages) outlining:
- Research methodology
- Work schedule
- Ideas for two case studies
- Budget and gross honorarium for the consultancy
Applicants should provide a final gross amount covering all services and associated costs.
Important Dates
30 September 2026
Application deadline
By 12 October 2026
Researchers selected
26 October 2026
Research contract begins
29 January 2027
Final deliverables due
Why This Opportunity Matters
This consultancy offers researchers an opportunity to shape global conversations around the future of media development. By examining how organizations respond to AI, geopolitical shifts, and increasing advocacy demands, the project will generate practical recommendations that support stronger, more resilient media ecosystems worldwide.
Researchers with expertise in journalism, digital governance, freedom of expression, public policy, and international development are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should prepare the required PDF application and submit it electronically to the DW Akademie research team before 30 September 2026. Only electronic applications will be accepted.
